The Grands Letter (Mark/GLJ)

Dear Grands,

Mark 13:28-33, “”Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 “Even so, you too, when you see these things happening, recognize that He is near, right at the door. 30 “Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 31 “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. 32 “But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. 33 “Take heed, keep on the alert; for you do not know when the appointed time is.”

The words “appointed time” are mentioned in the Old Testament 25 times; but in the New Testament only once, as referenced above. The phrase “sun rises” occurs only five times in the whole of Scripture, the words “sun sets” occur only four times; the word “time” itself appears 599 times in the whole of Scripture. We are duly warned!

Dr. John MacArthur, pastor of Grace Community Church in California, slipped into the arms of Jesus this past week, leaving a huge gap in the voice for the Gospel. I remember hearing him on the radio many years ago. His knowledge and usage of New Testament Greek were both helpful and encouraging!

Mark’s Gospel in the passage above tells us that the coming of our LORD Jesus Christ “is near, right at the door!” It is true that we do not know the precise time of Christ’s coming; however, we are admonished to “recognize that He is near, right at the door.”

Dr. MacArthur’s illness gave him awareness that his life was nearing an end. We’re not all given this awareness. Life may be shorter than we think. Sometimes a Gospel tract will help you to help others prepare. “Keep on the alert; for you and I do not know when our appointed times are coming.”

Heartily yours in Christ Jesus,

Gene

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America